Netanyahu said at the drill Israel “is not looking to challenge anybody but nobody will harm Israel.” Yaalon said Israel will not tolerate its sovereignty breached.

Mortar shells have exploded inside Israeli territory, causing damage and spreading panic but no injuries. Israel believes most were errant but has accused Syria of aiming at Israeli targets on several occasions and has briefly exchanged fire.

Israel is believed to have carried out several airstrikes in Syria in recent months against weapons destined for Hezbollah militants.